A Clatter of Jars

"A Clatter of Jars" invites readers into a whimsical summer camp where children with extraordinary, often secret, "Talents" gather. While the surface promises typical camp activities like talent shows and swimming, a deeper mystery unfolds as the kids realize they've been brought together for a specific, hidden purpose. This book, a companion to the National Book Award nominee "A Tangle of Knots," explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the courage to uncover the truth. It's ideal for middle-grade readers aged 8-12 who enjoy a blend of contemporary realism with a touch of magic and a compelling mystery. Parents will appreciate its gentle handling of suspense and its focus on teamwork and individual strengths.

In this magical companion to the National Book Award nominee A Tangle of Knots, it's summertime and everyone is heading off to camp. For Talented kids, the place to be is Camp Atropos, where they can sing songs by the campfire, practice for the Talent show, and take some nice long dips in the lake. But what the kids don't know is that they've been gathered for a reason--one that the camp's director wants to keep hidden at all costs.